Eberly News

Olgur Celikbas, Associate Professor of Mathematics in the School of Mathematical and Data Sciences at Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, is conducting research during this semester as part of an in-person fellowship at the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics (MPIM) in Bonn, Germany.

Duncan Lorimer, world-renowned astrophysicist and Professor of Physics and Astronomy in the WVU Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, has been appointed as the Eberly Distinguished Chair for Academic Excellence in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the fields of astronomy and astrophysics, excellence in teaching and his significant impact on the scientific research community at WVU and beyond.

Recognized as champions for justice, civil rights and world peace, four West Virginia University undergraduate students are the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship. Selected by the Center for Black Culture based on an essay and letters of recommendation, Tysa James, Janelle LaBarbera, Cheyenne Torres and Gabrielle Williams were honored at the annual MLK Unity Breakfast on Jan. 18 in the Mountainlair Ballrooms.

The Department of Geology and Geography at West Virginia University (WVU) is at the forefront of revolutionizing the energy landscape through its pioneering work in geosciences. Nestled in the Appalachian region, WVU leverages its unique geological setting to explore sustainable energy solutions, focusing on geothermal energy, critical minerals, and hydrogen storage. 

As the destruction continues with southern California’s wildfires that could be the costliest in U.S. history, one West Virginia University researcher said ongoing warm air temperatures and variable precipitation will lead to even more extreme fires in the future. Amy Hessl, a geography professor and paleoclimatologist in the WVU Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, has studied the relationship between fire and climate throughout the world, particularly North America, Central Asia and Australia. She attributes the widespread devastation of California’s fires to an unusual weather pattern, known as the Santa Ana or “devil winds,” that are unique to that area.

“We are excited to have Dr. Ryan, whose clear passion for and expertise in the humanities will build on the incredible foundation of the WVU Humanities Center as a cultural and intellectual hub,” Dean of Libraries Karen Diaz said. “Dr. Ryan will capitalize on the great synergies that already exist on and off campus, and work to evolve the roles the center plays in strengthening the University’s R1 status and commitment to the land-grant mission.”

Jessica Deshler, director of the School of Mathematical and Data Sciences, and Erin Goodykoontz, mathematics teaching associate professor, discuss the University’s responsibilities to its students and the state of West Virginia.

As a national and international leader in forensic and investigative science programs, Glen Jackson, Ming Hsieh Distinguished Professor of Forensic and Investigative Science, says the University is racing to shape the future of the field.

“West Virginia has the third highest percentage of older adults in the nation. This vital collaboration with the state Department of Human Services affirms our commitment to the University’s land-grant mission in support of West Virginia families and communities,” said Deana Morrow, principal investigator.

Amy Hessl, a WVU geography professor, is exploring how tree rings reveal past extreme space weather, with support from the National Science Foundation. Using tree ring records that document historic increases in atmospheric radiocarbon from rare "Miyake events" — massive solar energetic particle events that can disrupt satellite communication — Hessl studies how such storms could impact modern technology.